Driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI) remains a problem of epidemic proportions in the U.S. and beyond. Good people who normally obey the law are prone to having one or two too many before getting behind the wheel of their vehicles. At best, the driver might get pulled over by law enforcement and arrested for a costly DUI. At worst, the drunk driver will crash into another vehicle. Physical and emotional injuries will result, some of them serious, others fatal.

One thing is for certain. If you are one of these good people who happen to be arrested for DUI, you need the best legal representation you can find. DUI laws are not often as clear as they might seem. For instance, the professionals at the Law Offices of Aaron M. Black, experts on Arizona DUI Laws, state that a motorist doesn’t even need to be driving at the time of his or her arrest. All that’s required of a DUI conviction is to be in “actual physical control” of one’s vehicle while impaired and under the influence of alcohol or even illicit drugs.

But all that is about to change with a little help from smart driving technology. New smart systems are being engineered to put the brakes on DUI, perhaps for good. According to a recent report by the Big News Network, DUI remains a major public safety concern on a global level. Regardless of strict laws and awareness campaigns, drunk driving issues continue to result in crashes, serious injuries, and fatalities.

However, technology is currently tackling this persistent and potentially deadly issue. Leading the smart driving tech charge is the interlock device (IID). This high-tech solution is said to not only prevent DUIs but possibly eliminate them. Here’s how.

How Ignition Interlock Devices Work

At base, IIDs are said to be sophisticated breathalyzers that are designed to be connected to a vehicle’s ignition system. Before the vehicle is started, the driver is required to provide a breath sample for the IID system. If it detects alcohol above a pre-set limit, which is determined by normal blood alcohol content (BAC) as established for a U.S. State or locale outside of the country, the ignition will automatically lock up. In other words, the driver will not be able to start the vehicle. If the vehicle can’t be started, the driver cannot drink and drive.   

Contemporary IIDs are believed to be more than just a high-tech breathalyzer. They are integrated systems that come equipped with anti-circumvention features, real-time data reporting, and personalized calibration, which is said to be based on legal requirements and the driver’s history.

At present, IIDs are mandated as a tool for DUI offenders in many jurisdictions, and they have proved to dramatically reduce recidivism. The smart systems not only prevent drivers who’ve been drinking from starting their vehicles, but they also serve a psychological purpose. That is, they serve as a constant reminder of the costly consequences of DUI.   

How Ignition Interlock Devices Prevent DUI

Says the Big New Network, IIDs represent a major leap in DUI prevention and recidivism. Its advanced high-tech is said to simplify the process of reporting and monitoring real-time data which ensures DUI law compliance. All attempts to start a car outfitted with the IID system are recorded as they occur.

In many cases, the data is automatically transferred to law enforcement in the area. What this means is, that interlock ignition devices represent a data-driven approach to fighting persistent DUI. It is already playing a major role in the prevention of repeat offenses while enhancing overall road safety.   

How IID Advanced Technology is More User-Friendly and Effective

As of 2024, new advancements in IID tech are said to have enhanced their user-friendliness and effectiveness. The systems now typically come with real-time data reporting, GPS tracking systems, and facial recognition tech that can ensure the right person is the one who is providing the breath sample.

The enhancements are said to increase the accuracy of the device while making them less intrusive and easier to utilize for those people who are required to install them in their existing cars or trucks. New features that integrate mobile app connectivity allow users to control their accounts and access real-time support without friction. Such improvements in IIDs are considered of vital importance in making them less stigmatized and more socially acceptable. This will only enhance the device’s ability to promote safer driving behavior.

But in the final analysis, the most effective tool in the fight against DUI has nothing to do with high-tech. It has everything to do with a very simple human decision. Don’t drink and drive. Full stop.